Benefits of Normobaric Oxygen Therapy in the Preparation Phase (Pre-Exercise)
Preparing an equine athlete with oxygen-enriched air at ambient pressure (OxygenConcept) maximizes physiological reserves and clears the respiratory tract prior to competition stress.
1. Optimal Hemoglobin Saturation & Cellular "Pre-Loading"
Maximized Oxygen Reserves: Prior to an intense effort or course, inhaling air enriched to 90–95% guarantees peak hemoglobin saturation and increases the fraction of dissolved oxygen within the blood plasma.
Aerobic Metabolism Priming: The horse approaches exertion with fully charged cellular reserves, delaying the transition into anaerobic metabolism (the primary source of acidosis and early fatigue).
2. Opening & Cleansing of Deep Airways
Pre-Competition Purification: Thanks to the combined action of negative ions, the inhaled air precipitates dust and microparticles accumulated in the stable or horsebox.
Mucus Clearance: The bronchial tree is cleared and sanitized, providing the horse with an optimal alveolar exchange surface—essential for capturing maximum air volume from the very first strides of a gallop.
3. Stress Relief & Heart Rate Regulation
Calm & Focus Before the Event: Oxygen therapy sessions promote nervous relaxation. The horse enters the arena calmer, preventing the excessive energy expenditure linked to transport or pre-competition stress.
Cardiovascular Pre-Conditioning: The massive influx of oxygen stabilizes the resting heart rate prior to warm-up.
In Summary for Preparation:
A normobaric oxygen therapy session before competition ensures a clean respiratory system, fully loaded cellular energy reserves, and a composed mind.
